Alpha News

Iran: US Deploys Over 50 Fighter Jets and Aircraft Carriers Lincoln and Ford

Published February 18, 2026, 09:31

The United States has significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East, deploying over 50 fighter jets and two aircraft carriers, the Lincoln and Ford, near Iran. This move comes amid heightened tensions, alongside diplomatic efforts to revive the Iran nuclear deal. Reports indicate that the aircraft transferred include F-16, F-22, and F-35 fighters, while the USS Gerald R. Ford and its accompanying ships have received new orders for the region. The USS Abraham Lincoln, along with other warships, has been in the area since January. Alongside the US military deployment, Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has issued strong warnings to the United States. In statements, he directly threatened to sink the Lincoln aircraft carrier, asserting that Iran possesses the means to destroy American warships. Khamenei also criticized US military threats, stating that even the “strongest army in the world” could suffer significant losses. Khamenei's statements are accompanied by military exercises by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. These exercises appear to aim to demonstrate Iran's military power and deter potential US offensive actions. The situation in the region remains tense, with an increased risk of escalation. The US military deployment and Khamenei's statements reflect the complexity of relations between the US and Iran. While diplomatic efforts continue to reach a nuclear deal, the US military presence and Iran's threats underscore the deep distrust and tensions that characterize the relationship between the two countries. The situation requires careful management to avoid an uncontrolled escalation.